If you’re in the plumbing or HVAC industry, you know the importance of having the right tools to get the job done efficiently. One such tool is the eccentric flare tool, which is used to create flares on pipes that are essential for connecting them securely. In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about eccentric flare tools, from what they are and how they work to their benefits and limitations.
What Is an Eccentric Flare Tool?
An eccentric flare tool is a specialized tool that is used to create flares on pipes for various applications. It is designed to produce flares with precision and accuracy, ensuring a secure connection between pipes. The tool consists of two main parts – the body and the cone – that work together to create flares of different sizes.
How Does an Eccentric Flare Tool Work?
To use an eccentric flare tool, you first need to insert the pipe into the body of the tool until it stops against the stopper. Next, you need to tighten the clamp around the pipe using a wrench or pliers. Once the pipe is secured in place, you can start turning the cone clockwise using a wrench until it reaches the desired depth.
As you turn the cone, it will gradually push against the pipe’s inner walls, forcing them outwards to create a flare. The degree of flare depends on how far you turn the cone and can range from 45 degrees to 90 degrees. Once you’ve created the flare, you can remove the pipe from the tool and connect it with other pipes using appropriate fittings.
Benefits of Using an Eccentric Flare Tool
Using an eccentric flare tool offers several benefits over other methods of creating flares on pipes. Firstly, it provides superior precision and accuracy when compared to hand flaring methods. This means that you can create consistent flares every time, which is essential for ensuring a secure connection between pipes.
Secondly, an eccentric flare tool is faster and more efficient than hand flaring methods. It takes only a few seconds to create a flare using the tool, while hand flaring can take several minutes. This means that you can complete your work faster and move on to other tasks.
Thirdly, an eccentric flare tool is more reliable than other methods. It eliminates the risk of creating uneven or incomplete flares, which can cause leaks and other problems. This reduces the need for rework and ensures that your work meets industry standards.
Limitations of Using an Eccentric Flare Tool
While an eccentric flare tool offers many benefits, it also has some limitations that you need to be aware of. Firstly, it requires a significant amount of force to create flares. This means that you need to have strong hands or use pliers or wrenches to turn the cone. If you’re working with large pipes, this can be quite challenging.
Secondly, an eccentric flare tool is not suitable for all types of pipes. It works best with copper pipes but may not produce good results with other materials such as steel or plastic. You need to check the manufacturer’s instructions before using the tool to ensure that it’s compatible with the pipe material.
Conclusion
An eccentric flare tool is an indispensable tool for anyone working in the plumbing or HVAC industry. It offers superior precision, speed, and reliability when compared to other methods of creating flares on pipes. However, it also has some limitations that you need to consider before using it.
If you decide to use an eccentric flare tool, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use appropriate safety gear such as gloves and eye protection. With proper use and care, an eccentric flare tool can help you create flawless flares that will last for years.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flare_tool
https://www.copper.org/applications/plumbing/techcorner/flaring.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fYID9aOqEo
